RTE's autumn schedule is facing a radical overhaul with the loss of The Clinic and a new afternoon series on the horizon -- but one show that won't be off the menu is restaurant series, RAW.

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The Herald has learned that the national broadcaster is preparing to sign on the dotted line to recommission the hit series for a third season.

Negotiations are currently underway to begin shooting next summer on the popular drama, which is expected to return for an extended run of at least ten episodes.

Stars of the show, including Charlene McKenna, Damon Gameau, Michael Colgan and newcomer, Aisling O'Sullivan have been warned to keep their schedules clear during the summer months in order to facilitate filming.

The news comes just days after the second series went off air last Sunday, drawing impressive viewing figures of 460,700 viewers, a 29pc share, for the final episode.

"No official announcement has been made yet but everyone on the crew's been unofficially told it's coming back," said one programme insider.

"They've also been told it will more than likely occupy the Sunday night slot, which has been left vacant by The Clinic until a replacement has been found."

The hit series is produced by Octagon Films and Ecosse Films, with the majority of filming taking place in Ardmore studios.

An RTE representative said were very happy with the last series, but declined to comment on its future.